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Dahlia Hage

13 Things You’ll Miss About Beirut If You Ever Leave

These are just a handful of the things I miss about Lebanon whenever I leave.



1. There is always something to do. 



For one, you can go out any day of the week, and that is no exaggeration. There are multiple restaurants that open 24/7. There are always events going on – both free and paid. I am always amazed how other cities completely shut down by 6 PM on weekdays.


2. The entertainment of watching people fight over bills.



You can bet that no matter which restaurant or pub you find yourself in, you will see people fighting over the bill. It is entertaining to watch the most manipulative one win and the always funny surrender. “Well if I knew you were paying I would have picked somewhere more expensive.” Ha!


3. You can do virtually anything you want. 

Want to make a U-turn in the middle of the highway? Not far fetched at all. Want to shut down Starbucks for the night and make it a pub? I seriously wouldn’t put it past a Lebanese person to make it happen (that’s actually a good idea). Oh right, but you still can’t get a civil marriage. Ouch.



4. The abundance of debates.

Whether between foreigners and locals, only foreigners, or only locals – you can count on hearing a political or cultural debate no matter where you go. Usually it’s refreshing to hear people exchanging thoughts freely.



5. How intuitive people are.

This is also a result of Lebanese people’s incredible ability to profile you. Nevertheless, when you are in a shop, chances are the shop owner will quickly read you and help you find exactly what you’re looking for. 



6. Everything is customizable. 

You’ll never hear a Lebanese person saying they can’t make something the way you like. They’ll always try their best to serve you. Like the one time I ordered a cup of coffee that was 3/4 decaffeinated, and 1/4 caffeinated. 


7. People know how to drive.

It is because of the chaotic driving conditions, that Lebanese people learned to cope and became prepared for the unexpected. In other countries, driving is so stable, that one bump in the road (literally) can cause a lot of confusion. If anything, roads that are too regulated in Lebanon cause confusion.


8. Hospitality comes first, even if you don’t want it.

Especially among family, people insist on helping you. Whether you like it or not, whether you actually want it or not. Sometimes it’s frustrating but that type of determination to help is rare and appreciated. 


9. People know how to relax and have fun.

Having fun is second nature to Lebanese people. Taking a minute to relax, or having a spontaneous night out is our forte. 



10. Summer.

The whole country changes in the summer time. Resorts open, public beaches are packed, summer-centric businesses open, summer business hours are in effect, the mountains are bustling – the city is alive and happy.



11. Knefe.


Image via travelingwiththyme.com

Don’t look at me like that, you know it’s true. Whether you prefer Abdul Rahman Hallab (yes), Doueihy, SeaSweet, or the old couple that makes knefe in your village- you know you’re gonna miss it because it won’t be the same outside of the Middle East.



12. A long, long list of food.

Manouche, hummos ou foul, shawarma, Lebanese street food, the seasonal fruit carts on the street, and home-cooked meals.



13. The door to door service.

Whether its to your car door or house door, Lebanese businesses will get you what you want. No matter what it is.